Implementation of Urdu as official language ordered

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Tuesday ordered that Urdu be adopted as official language across the country, ARY News reported.

The verdict was announced by the SC bench headed by Chief Justice Jawaad S. Khawaja. He was hearing a petition seeking to declare Urdu as official language.

The apex court ordered the immediate implementation of Article 251 of the Constitution and issued nine guidelines for making Urdu an official language.

Article 251 of the Constitution pertains to national language:

(1)The national language of Pakistan is Urdu and arrangements shall be made for its being used for official and other purposes within fifteen years from the commencing day.

(2)Subject to clause (1), the English language may be used for official purposes until arrangements are made for its replacement by Urdu.

(3)Without prejudice to the status of the National language, a Provincial Assembly may by law prescribe measures for the teaching, promotion and use of a provincial language in addition to the national language.